How to plant ferns

Ferns are wonderful and easy-to-grow foliage plants that will bring movement and a distinctive architectural elegance to the perennial border. Sometimes evergreen or semi-evergreen, these favourites of the woodland garden will thrive in the shade and will provide wonderful backdrops to bold flowers as their intricate fronds gradually unfurl. Try planting with white, blue or red flowers such as Crocosmia  to lift the colours. Perennials like Astrantia, Aquilegia and Species Lilies  all work well.

They like partial to full shade and prefer moist soils. Planting distance varies from 40 to 120 cm depending on the variety.

Potential problems, pests and diseases:
Ferns are generally disease and pest free